DoD Contractors’ Employment Expo Connects Job Seekers with Industry Leaders
October 6, 2025 | Story by Naomi Wilkins | Commander, Navy Installations Command | Fleet and Family Readiness
WASHINGTON – The Department of Defense (DoD) Contractors’ Employment Expo provided an amazing opportunity for job seekers to connect with top companies in the defense industry, offering new opportunities beyond its traditional federal hiring summits. The event brought together 16 major defense contractors eager to share advice, opportunities and best practices.
Held September 10-11, 2025, the two-day agenda featured a robust lineup of presenters, giving attendees a wide variety of opportunities to learn and engage. “This event is all about connecting talented individuals with employers in the DoD space,” said Ebonie Powe, Family Employment Readiness Program Analyst for Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC), who played a vital role in coordinating the event.
Northrop Grummon’s Brian Bilski delivered an engaging presentation on career opportunities with the company and offered recruitment advice for those looking to stand out in a competitive market. “You need to be on LinkedIn reaching out to recruiters,” Bilski emphasized, encouraging attendees to build connections online. He also advised participants to keep their resumes updated and tailored for each position they apply for. “It’s ok to be nervous, but be confident,” he added.
The agenda also featured Crew Training International (CTI), where Mike Belt provided insight into the company’s recruitment practices, including their participation in the SkillBridge internship program, and answered questions on the topic.
Boeing representatives John Zanfardino and Edward Bird shared resume tips, company benefits and current job openings. Zanfardino also emphasized the importance of interview preparation, advising attendees to “know the job and answer accordingly.”
Several other companies, including Centurum, Cisco Systems and more, offered valuable tips and shared information about their specific hiring processes. Presenters highlighted what they looked for in applicants, how to prepare for interviews and provided key contact information with the attendees.
The successful event attracted 1,070 attendees, with 45% being family members. Notably, 30% of attendees reported receiving career support from Fleet and Family Support Programs (FFSP), highlighting the program’s impact on Sailors and their families. “We were thrilled with the turnout and the positive feedback, and look forward to continuing the event in 2026,” said Powe.